Person of interest in church robberies

Police identified a person of interest, who police believe is female and drives a silver Ford Taurus with the New York State license plate: EVU 2608

A local priest believes the faltering economy could be a motive in a string of thefts at Buffalo churches.

Last Sunday between 11 a.m. and noon, at least four women had either their wallet or purse stolen during church.

It happened at St. Mark's on Amherst and Woodward, St. Louis at Main and Edward, St. George Orthodox on Amherst and Nottingham and Westminster Presbyterian on Delaware.

Police believe the same person, a young woman, may have hit all four churches.

Chief Dennis Richards said, "And in fact she has in a couple instances talked to the people in the church. She appears to be disheveled, almost, like being welcomed into the church. It's almost striking at people's vulnerable moments."

Police are reminding church goers to not leave purses or wallets unattended during service.

If you have information, please call the Tipcall line at 847-2255.